Moreover, one of the best feelings is reaching the summit after a long walk and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Walking in nature has a positive effect on anxiety and depression
Physical activity is a tonic for health, both physical and mental. Going for a walk in the midst of nature is a perfect way to switch off from everyday life and take a moment for yourself. Sunshine and fresh air have positive effects on mood, reducing anxiety and depression. Even the simple act of walking can be therapeutic, increasing the production of endorphins, which lift our mood and make us feel happier. So, if you feel stressed or sad, take a break from technology and enjoy plenty of time outdoors.
Trekking reduces stress and cardiovascular risk
Trekking, like sport in general, is a great ally against stress. Besides the psychological aspect, stress also affects physical health: it raises blood pressure and cortisol synthesis, insomnia often sets in, and clarity and attention are lost. Moreover, precisely because of cortisol, appetite also increases, which often leads to weight gain. All of this translates into an increased cardiovascular risk, that is, heart attacks, strokes, atherosclerosis and so on. Physical activity, especially aerobic exercise, works as an “antidote” against all these problems.
Long walks help to maintain a healthy body weight
Long walks help to maintain a healthy body weight, according to a recent study published in the journal ‘Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise’. The researchers examined data from over 36,000 Americans aged between 18 and 80 and found that those who did more than 150 minutes of physical activity a week, mainly walking, were 50% less likely to be obese than those who did no physical activity at all. Obesity is one of the causes of metabolic syndrome, which leads to many disorders, including hypertension and diabetes, with increased inflammation, which in turn leads to a great many negative consequences, including a higher risk of developing cancer.
